The University of Memphis is a respected public research institution in Tennessee, United States, with a long history of welcoming students from across the globe. Known for its strong academic offerings, research impact and diverse campus community, the university has positioned itself as a destination for international students seeking quality education in the U.S.
To support global talent and promote academic excellence, the University of Memphis offers a range of merit-based scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to reduce the financial burden associated with studying abroad while encouraging high-performing students to contribute to the university’s academic and cultural environment. Over the years, these awards have enabled thousands of international students to access higher education, foster cross-cultural exchange and graduate with globally competitive qualifications.
Eligibility and Who Can Receive the Scholarship
Understanding who qualifies for the University of Memphis international scholarship is essential before applying. These scholarships are primarily merit-based and targeted at newly admitted international students.
Visa and Student Status Requirements
To be considered for an international scholarship at the University of Memphis, applicants must:
Be classified as an international student.
Hold a valid F-1 or J-1 student visa.
Be admitted into a degree-seeking undergraduate or graduate programme.
Be enrolling at the University of Memphis for the first time.
Students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or dual citizens are not eligible for these scholarships. Similarly, continuing students who are already enrolled at the university are generally not considered, as the awards are designed for new entrants.
Academic Eligibility
Academic performance is the cornerstone of scholarship selection.
For undergraduate applicants, eligibility is based on:
Cumulative secondary school or high school GPA.
Standardised test scores such as ACT or SAT, where available.
For postgraduate applicants, eligibility is based on:
Undergraduate degree GPA converted to the U.S. grading system.
Graduate admission test scores such as GRE or GMAT, depending on programme requirements.
Meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee a scholarship, as awards are competitive and limited in number.
Tuition Fee Waiver, Full or Partial?
A common question among prospective students is whether the University of Memphis scholarship covers full tuition.
Partial Tuition Fee Waiver Explained
The University of Memphis international scholarship does not typically cover full tuition. Instead, it offers a partial tuition fee waiver that bridges the gap between international tuition rates and domestic non-Tennessee resident tuition rates.
In simple terms, the scholarship reduces the higher international tuition fee to a level closer to what out-of-state domestic students pay. This reduction can represent a significant saving over the duration of a degree programme.
Is Full Tuition Ever Covered?
Full tuition coverage is not standard under the university’s general international scholarship scheme. However, some graduate students may receive additional funding through assistantships, departmental awards or special academic opportunities that can further reduce costs. These opportunities are separate from the main international scholarship and are usually handled at the departmental level.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
What the Scholarship Covers
The University of Memphis international scholarship primarily covers:
The tuition fee difference between international and domestic non-resident rates.
It does not usually cover:
Accommodation and housing.
Meal plans.
Health insurance.
Textbooks and study materials.
Personal and living expenses.
Students should plan financially for these additional costs when preparing to study at the university.
Duration and Renewal Conditions
For undergraduate students:
Scholarships are often renewable for up to four academic years.
Renewal depends on maintaining full-time enrolment.
A minimum GPA must be maintained to remain eligible.
For master’s students:
Scholarships are typically awarded on a semester-by-semester basis.
Full-time enrolment is required.
A minimum cumulative GPA, usually around 3.0, must be maintained.
Failure to meet renewal conditions can result in the scholarship being reduced or withdrawn.
Application and Selection Criteria
One of the advantages of the University of Memphis scholarship system is that it does not usually require a separate scholarship application.
Undergraduate Application and Selection Process
Undergraduate international students are automatically considered for scholarships when they apply for admission.
Selection is based on:
High school GPA.
Standardised test scores, if submitted.
Overall academic strength demonstrated in the application.
To remain eligible:
Students must enrol in at least 12 credit hours per semester.
Academic performance must remain strong throughout the programme.
Applying early increases the chances of being considered, as some awards are limited and offered on a rolling basis.
Master’s Application and Selection Process
Graduate international applicants are also automatically reviewed for scholarship eligibility as part of the admission process.
Selection criteria may include:
A strong undergraduate GPA equivalent to at least a 3.0 to 3.25 on the U.S. scale.
Competitive GRE or GMAT scores were required by the programme.
Academic consistency and relevance of prior studies.
Graduate scholarships are competitive, and not all admitted students receive an award.
Pro Tips for International Scholarship Applicants
Apply Early and Strategically
Early applications often receive priority consideration. Submitting your application ahead of deadlines gives your profile more visibility.
Strengthen Your Academic Profile
A strong GPA remains the most important factor. Where possible, submit standardised test scores that reflect your academic capability.
Ensure Accurate Credential Evaluation
Make sure your academic records are properly evaluated and clearly translated into the U.S. grading system.
Plan for Full-Time Study
Scholarships are tied to full-time enrolment. Plan your course load carefully to avoid disqualification.
Explore Departmental Funding
Especially for graduate students, some departments offer assistantships or additional awards that can supplement your scholarship.
The University of Memphis international scholarship offers meaningful financial relief to academically strong students seeking a U.S. education. While it may not fully fund tuition, it significantly reduces the cost of study and opens doors to a globally respected academic environment.
If studying in the United States is part of your long-term academic or career plan, the University of Memphis represents a solid option worth serious consideration. Start early, prepare your documents thoroughly and focus on presenting a strong academic profile.
Take the next step by reviewing your eligibility, organising your academic records and preparing your admission application with intention. A well-prepared application could be the key to securing both admission and scholarship support at the University of Memphis.
